Celebrating the best of Tipton County
Your votes are in.
2 ★ The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018
Visit us online at covingtonleader.com
VOTED BEST BREAKFAST We would like to thank all of our customers for this award. It is our pleasure to serve you!
Breakfast Cove 3419 Hwy 51 Covington, TN 38019 901.475.4500
JIM BADDOUR III, D.D.S., PLLC
426 HIGHWAY 51 SOUTH COVINGTON, TN 38019 | 901-476-3626
VOTED BEST DENTIST & BEST DENTAL CLINIC THANK YOU!
410 HWY 51 COVINGTON, TN 38019 PHONE: 901.476.7139 FAX: 901.476.7130 glasstiremuffler.com
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST AUTO REPAIR
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST ASIAN CUISINE! WE APPRECIATE YOUR BUSINESS.
Ming’s BUFFET & GRILL
1655 Hwy 51 Covington, TN 38019 901.646.6276
WITHERINGTON
SERVICES
Thanks for voting me Best Car Salesman.
M
cDivitt MOTORS
1723F Hwy. 51 South, Covington
901-476-5959
Friends Don’t Let Friends, Drive Junk.
THESE ELECTIONS ARE RIGGED! DON’T BELIEVE THE LYING MAINSTREAM MEDIA! #MAKE COVINGTON COOL AGAIN! Witherington Services supports
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The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018 ★ 3
Jackson Hughey, second from right, hugs Leader Publisher Rochelle Stidham after being named Youth of the Year last month. In what was the most emotional moment of any Readers’ Choice Awards banquet to date, the crowd gave him a standing ovation. The sophomore has been battling cancer for a year. Photo by Echo Day
Announcing the 2018 winners
O
n July 28, The Leader hosted the fifth Readers’ Choice Awards banquet announcing the winners of the newspaper’s annual contest. This year changes were made to the way nominations were solicited and finalists were ranked. For two weeks in May, The Leader ran a poll offering readers the opportunity to nominate on those whom they believe are the best of Tipton County. The votes were tallied by staff and the top finishers in each category have moved on to the finals round of voting. “We wanted to change the process this year, so we’ll do two rounds of voting,” said publisher Rochelle Stidham. “We want this to be a true readers’ choice contest with a lot of engagement between our local businesses and their patrons.” Stidham said she is pleased with the amount of ballots which came in this year, a striking increase to previous years. “It was just incredible,” she said. “Within 24 hours, we already had 200 ballots come in online as people voted for their favorites. We had close to 6,000 votes come in during the second round of voting, which is the most we’ve ever had in the 12 years The Leader has done this.” There were also changes to the banquet. The event, which began in 2014 as a way to formally announce winners, had a change in venue. The banquet took place at the newly-opened Covington Civic Center. The event had been held at the Chamber Center since it began but the building was recently sold to Gateway Baptist Church. “We’re excited about the change of venue,” said Stidham. “It goes right along with our mission to reinvent the awards a little bit this year.” This year’s also featured live entertainment from Covington graduate Austin Mason. The 18-year-old singer/songwriter performed in his signature acoustic style during the dinner period. Brandon Armstrong emceed the program. A native of Covington, he spends his days encouraging high school students to pursue post-secondary education opportunities as a REDI College Access Mentor at Brighton High School. “It was such a great event,” said Stidham. “We want to congratulate this year’s winners and thank everyone who joined us.” Sponsors for this year’s RCAs were Cannon Chiropractic, Combs & Company, Tipton Christian Academy, First Baptist Church - Covington, AireServe of Tipton County, Up Town Curls, Ray Mechanical and Baptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton. We’d like to also give special thanks to Naifeh’s Cashsaver, Covington Liquor, Hometown Flowers & Gifts, Billings Bald Butcher, Brandon Armstrong, Austin Mason and the Covington Civic Center.
MS. TIPTON COUNTY AYANNA DOWELL
BEST DENTIST BEST DENTAL CLINIC
Top: Emcee Brandon Armstrong poses for a photo with Ayanna Dowell, who became the first African-American woman to be named Ms. Tipton County. Above: Dr. Jim Baddour shows off his awards for Best Dentist and Best Dental Clinic. Photos by Andy Posey
4 ★ The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018
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Hometown Flowers & Gifts 901-476-1212
1055 S. Main St. Covington, TN 38019 Locally-owned
Thank you for voting us #1 Flower Shop!
®
i’m lovin’ it
Local Locations: 887 Hwy 51 Covington 10921 Hwy 51 Munford
®
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST FRENCH FRIES! Thank you for supporting our office in the Readers’ Choice Award category of Best Investment Firm!
FOOD & DINING ALL-AROUND RESTAURANT ★ Court Square Cafe Finalists: Billings Bald Butcher, Gilt Edge Cafe ASIAN CUISINE ★ Ming’s Buffet Finalists: New China Star, Sakura Garden BAKERY ★Naifeh’s Cashsaver 738 Hwy. 51 North, Covington 901-476-8213/naifehs.com Finalists: Sookie’s Bake Shop, Sweet Scentsations BBQ ★ MidSouth BBQ Finalists: Outlaw BBQ, Piggin’ Ain’t Easy BISCUITS ★Fastimes Locations in Atoka, Burlison, Brighton, Covington and Munford 901-476-8040 (Brighton) Finalists: Popeye’s, McDonald’s BEST BREAKFAST: BREAKFAST COVE
Steven J Jones, AAMS® Financial Advisor
360 Atoka McLaughlin Suite A Atoka, TN 38004 901-837-0772 www.edwardjones.com BREAKFAST ★ Breakfast Cove 3419 Hwy. 51 South, Covington 901-475-4500 Finalists: Billings Bald Butcher, IHOP
www.edwardjones.com MKT-5894I-A
BUFFET ★ Olympic Steak & Pizza Finalists: Billings Bald Butcher, Ming’s Buffet BURGERS ★ Burger City Finalists: Court Square Cafe, JT’s Burgers & Wings
The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018 ★ 5
Visit us online at covingtonleader.com
COFFEE ★ Hug-a-Mug Finalists: McDonald’s, Sookie’s Bake Shop DESSERTS ★ Well’s Kitchen 136 N. Main, Brighton 901-476-5750 Finalists: Court Square Cafe, Sookie’s Bake Shop DONUTS ★ Munford Donuts Finalists: Naifeh’s, Donut Man #2
BEST DESSERTS, HOMECOOKING: WELL’S KITCHEN
Thank You for Voting us #1 Bank and #1 Mortgage Lender in Tipton County! “Downhome Banking the Way It Should Be”
www.patriot-bank.com
HOME COOKING ★ Well’s Kitchen 136 N. Main, Brighton 901-476-5750 Finalists: Court Square Cafe, Pappy & Jimmie’s
www.patriotmortgage.com
FRENCH FRIES ★ McDonald’s Finalists: Burger City, JT’s Burgers & Wings FRIED CHICKEN ★ Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken Finalists: Popeye’s, Well’s Kitchen FOOD TRUCK ★ Chick-Fil-A Finalists: MidSouth BBQ, Piggin’ Ain’t Easy
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Atoka Railroad Adventure 110 Michael Street Atoka,TN 38004 901.483.8888 AtokaRailroad.com
ICE CREAM/FROZEN TREATS ★ The Sno Cottage Locations in Atoka, Munford and Covington 901-652-6503 Finalists: Sonic, Dairy Queen MEXICAN ★ Las Margaritas Finalists: Casa Mexicana, El Presidente PIZZA ★ Milano’s Pizza Finalists: Olympic Steaks & Pizza, Pizza Hut SALAD BAR ★ Olympic Steak & Pizza Finalists: Billings Bald Butcher, Pizza Hut SEAFOOD ★ Billings Bald Butcher 100 Star Shopping Center, Covington 901-313-9078 Finalists: Captain D’s, Ming’s Buffet, Olympic Steaks & Pizza
Thank you readers, for voting us Best Place to Have a Birthday Party!
STEAKS ★ Wyatt Earp’s Steak House Finalists: Bald Butcher, Erwin’s
ATTRACTIONS
SWEET TEA ★ Court Square Cafe Finalists: McDonald’s, Sonic
• Minigolf
SANDWICHES ★ Court Square Cafe Finalists: Piggin’ Ain’t Easy, Subway
• Rock Wall $5* • Arcade *per person* • Bronco Bounce $3 • 45 Ft Tall Ferris Wheel $4 • Virtual Golf
WINGS ★ JT’s Burgers & Wings 76 Tabb Drive, Munford 901-837-9339/ jtsburgersandwings.com Finalists: Popeye’s, Wing Basket
6 & Under $2, 7 & Up $8
• Train Rides $3* *Weekend Only*
GET 25% OFF W/ CODE: RYAN
6 ★ The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018
Thank you for voting us Best Seafood!
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HOME & FINANCE ATTORNEY ★ Kasey Culbreath Finalists: Jere Mason, William Wooten
BANK ★ Patriot Bank Locations in Covington and Atoka 901-475-0405/patriot-bank.com Finalists: Regions Bank, InSouth Bank
100 Star Shopping Center St. Covington, TN 38019 Phone: 901.313.9081
CONTRACTOR/CONSTRUCTION ★ Rose Construction 126 Hwy. 51 South, Covington 901-476-9600/roseconstruction.com Finalists: Corey Apfel, Jimmy Gurley FUNERAL HOME ★ Maley-Yarbrough Funeral Home 1770 Hwy. 51 South, Covington 901-476-9778/maleyyarbrough.com Finalists: Covington Funeral Home, Munford Funeral Home HOME BUILDER ★ Apex Home Builders Finalists: D&D Custom Homes, W&W Homebuilders
sheriff j.t. “Pancho” Chumley
INSURANCE AGENT ★ Brad Carlisle, State Farm 205 W. Pleasant, Covington 901-476-7500/statefarm.com Finalists: Neil Bringle, Michael Harris
“Thank you for the opportunity to serve.”
Voted Best Law Enforcement Officer and Best Elected Official.
120 Court Square East Covington, TN 901.475.1050
INSURANCE COMPANY ★ Farm Bureau Finalists: McGowan & Stitt, State Farm - Brad Carlisle, Woodmen Life INVESTMENT FIRM ★ Edward Jones, Steven Jones 360 Atoka-McLaughlin Rd., Atoka 901-837-9772/ edwardjones.com/steven-j-jones Finalists: McGowan & Stitt, Woodmen Life LANDSCAPER ★ All Day Lawn 4050 Hwy. 51 South, Brighton 901-476-0079/ alldaylawn.com Finalists: Bradley Jacobs, West Lawn LAW FIRM ★ Wooten Law Office 120 E. Court Square, Covington 901-475-1050/ wootenlawoffice.com Finalists: Huffman Mason Law, Owen Jenkins Dedmon Witherington Law Group MORTGAGE LENDER ★ Patriot Bank Locations in Covington and Atoka 901-475-0405/patriot-bank.com Finalists: American Mortgage, Regions Bank REAL ESTATE BROKER ★ Crye-Leike Realtors 13690 Hwy. 51 South, Atoka 901-840-1181/crye-leike.com/atoka Finalists: Covington Realty, Hometown Realty REAL ESTATE AGENT ★ Laurie McClerkin 204 Hwy. 51 South, Ste. B, Covington 901-493-2278/ Finalists: Carolyn Whaley, Loretta Eubanks
HEALTH & BEAUTY We would like to thank the readers of The Leader for voting us Best Law Firm. Our team takes great pride in serving every customer that walks through our door.
BARBER/STYLIST ★ Brittany Combs Finalists: Courtney Watkins, Dakotah Watkins CHIROPRACTOR ★ Dr. Jayson Cannon Finalists: Dr. Breck Beasley, Dr. Clint Rogers DENTAL CLINIC ★ Baddour Family Dentistry 426 Hwy. 51 South, Covington 901-476-3626/baddourfamilydentistry.com Finalists: Dr. Bob Dalsania, Turner Family Dentistry, Wrather Family Dentistry
Visit us online at covingtonleader.com
DENTIST ★ Dr. Jim Baddour Baddour Family Dentistry 426 Hwy. 51 South, Covington 901-476-3626/baddourfamilydentistry.com Finalists: Dr. Bob Dalsania, Dr. Wayne Conley, Dr. John Turner FITNESS CENTER/GYM ★ ATC Fitness Finalists: Covington Sportsplex, Total Fitness HAIR SALON ★ Little Shop of Hair 130 East Liberty Avenue, Covington 901-475-6261 Finalists: Up Town Curls, Combs & Company HOME HEALTH AGENCY ★ Baptist Home Care & Hospice Finalists: Amedisys, Care All, Comfort Keepers, Methodist Home Health & Hospice, Trinity Home Health
The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018 ★ 7
UPSCALE ANTIQUES & MORE Thank you for voting Upscale Antiques & More your #1 choice for Antiques & Resale in Tipton County.
107 E Pleasant Ave Covington, TN Historic Court Square Mon-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-4
HOME HEALTH NURSE ★ Tori Billings Finalists: Rose Bowen, Stacie Clar, Erika Ervin, Amy Gwin, Peyton Reed, Leigh Smith LAB TECH ★ Felicia Dye Finalists: Lewis Marbry, Ron Smith MASSAGE/SPA ★ Tina’s Touch Finalists: Kneading a Massage, Megan LoBianco MEDICAL CLINIC/FACILITY ★ Brighton Family Medicine Finalists: Easley & Delones Family Medicine, Tipton County Health Dept. MINOR MEDICAL CLINIC ★ Fast Pace Finalists: RedMed, Wade Family Medicine NURSE PRACTITIONER ★ Jennifer Easley Finalists: Jennifer Chaney, Brandi Franks
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST HOTEL!
NURSE ★ Jennifer Newsome Finalists: Teri Eghert, Madalyn Mason ONCOLOGIST ★ Dr. Robert Johnson,West Clinic Finalists: Dr. Arnel Pallera, Dr. Lee Schwartzberg, Dr. Gary Tian, Dr. Carmel Verrier OPTOMETRIST ★ Dr. Stan Whitley 312 South Main Street, Covington 901-476-8614/whitleyandhughes.com Finalists: Dr. Marty Hughes, Dr. Jeff Millican ORTHODONTIST ★ Bartlett Pediatric Dentistry Finalist: Memphis Orthodontic Specialists PHARMACY ★ Bradford Family Pharmacy 1500 Hwy. 51 South, Covington 901-475-6300/bradfordfamilypharmacy.com Finalists: Brighton Pharmacy, Boatwright Pharmacy PHARMACIST ★ Justin Bradford 1500 Hwy. 51 South, Covington 901-475-6300/bradfordfamilypharmacy.com Finalists: Frank Miller, Chuck Porter SENIOR CARE FACILITY ★ Covington Care Nursing and Rehabilitation Center 765 Bert Johnston Avenue, Covington 901-475-0027 Finalists: Parkway Cove, Magnolia Creek X-RAY/CT/IMAGING ★ Aimee Hooper Finalists: Gina Lavelle, Kimbrough Johnson, Brooke Doss
PLACES
DANCE STUDIO ★ Cathy’s School of Dance Finalist: Showstars
we are proud to be selected as your favorite builder & congrats to Paul Rose -businessman of the year.
8 ★ The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018
Visit us online at covingtonleader.com
FIFTH ANNUAL
READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS BANQUET Thursday, July 28, 2018
Clockwise from top: The Covington Civic Center fills with guests prior to the event. Guests mingle during the cocktail hour. Stephen Shopher poses for a photo with deputies Lorin Raines and Keith Saemenes, who are both up against the sheriff for Best Law Enforcement Officer. Kasey Culbreath celebrates her win as Best Attorney. Friends greet one another and wish each other well before the program begins. Photos by Andy Posey
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The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018 ★ 9
I would like to thank you all for voting me Best Insurance Agent! Call us or find us online at bradcarlisle.com today for a free quote to save some $$$.
205 W Pleasant Ave Covington, TN 38019 901.476.7500
Clockwise from top: Brittany Combs celebrates her win as Best Barber/Stylist. Bobby and Charlita Foulks pose for a candid photo. Clint and Courtney Watkins take a moment for a photo prior to taking their seats. Photos by Andy Posey
10 ★ The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018
DAYCARE/PRESCHOOL ★ Tipton Christian Academy Finalists: Krayola, Methodist-Presbyterian Preschool GOLF COURSE ★ Covington Country Club Finalist: Forest Hill Golf Course HOTEL ★ Holiday Inn Express 120 Deena Cove, Covington 901-476-9700 Finalists: Comfort Inn, Days Inn LOCAL EVENT ★ Go Lucy Go Finalists: Atoka BBQ Festival, Heritage Festival PARK/PLACE TO PLAY ★ Atoka Splash Pad Finalists: Cobb Parr Park, Nancy Lane Park PLACE TO HAVE A BIRTHDAY PARTY ★ Atoka Railroad Adventure 110 Michael Avenue, Atoka 901-483-8888/atokarailroad.com Finalists: Buff City Soap, Cobb Parr Park, Covington Aquatic Center, Covington Civic Center PLACE TO SEE LIVE MUSIC ★ Music on the Square Finalists: Danno’s Grill, Celebrate Munford, Heritage Festival, Munford High School PLACE TO WORK ★ Tipton County Schools Finalists: Baptist Memorial Hospital-Tipton, Tipton Christian Academy PLACE TO WORSHIP ★ First Baptist Covington 2105 Hwy. 59 South, Covington 901-476-2489/fbcovington.org Finalists: Covington Assembly of God, Covington Church of Christ
Visit us online at covingtonleader.com
FIREFIGHTER ★ Brad Dunavant, Covington Fire Dept. Finalists: Joshua Posey, Brian Shoemaker EMT ★ Baker McCool, Covington Fire Dept. Finalists: Nathan Rogers, Adam Hursh HEATING & AIR ★ AireServ of Tipton County 120 West Liberty Avenue, Covington 901-290-0224/aireserv.com/tipton Finalists: Ray’s Mechanical, Rob Witherington LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER ★ Sheriff Pancho Chumley Finalists: Lorin Raines, Keith Saemanes NON-PROFIT/CIVIC CLUB ★ Exchange Club - Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse Finalists: Boys & Girls Club of the Hatchie River Region, Junior Auxiliary of Tipton County PET GROOMER ★ Tammy’s Doggy Do’s Finalists: Victoria’s, Classic Sea World PEST CONTROL ★ Mack’s Pest Control Finalists: Southern Lawn & Pest, Inman-Murphy Pest Control PHILANTHROPIST ★ Houston Gordon Finalists: Nina Smith, Marianne Dunavant PHOTOGRAPHER ★ Phil Ramsey Finalists: Cristi Oswalt, Emily Peyton Cook PLUMBER ★ Roy Clay Turner Finalists: Cory Apfel, Forbes Plumbing
PUBLIC SCHOOL ★ Munford High School Finalists: Austin Peay Elementary, Crestview Elementary
POLITICIAN/ELECTED OFFICIAL ★ Sheriff Pancho Chumley Finalists: Gilt Edge Mayor Steve Fletcher, Covington Mayor Justin Hanson, Tipton County Executive Jeff Huffman
PRIVATE SCHOOL ★ Tipton Christian Academy Finalist: Tipton-Rosemark Academy
SPIRITUAL LEADER ★ Chuck Williams Finalists: Ed Hawkins, Cliff Marion
WEDDING VENUE ★ The Manor at Mt.Carmel 3904 Mt. Carmel Road, Covington 731-676-3697/mtcarmelmanor.com Finalists: Agape Wedding Chapel, Covington Civic Center, The Balcony
SUMMER CAMP ★ Down on the Farm (CHS FFA) Finalists: Camp Invention, Summer Theater Camp
SERVICES
BANK EMPLOYEE ★ Jessica Jones, Regions Bank Finalists: Jackie Wilson, Kelley Gray BUSINESSPERSON ★ Paul Rose, Rose Construction 126 Hwy. 51 South, Covington 901-476-9600/roseconstruction.com Finalists: Don Baskin, Neil Bringle, Kati Donaldson, Charles Ennis, Sam Lynd, Tim McKnatt, Ric Morris, Rob Witherington CLEANING SERVICE ★ Merry Maids 13842 Hwy. 51 South, Atoka 901-209-0383 Finalists: J & J Cleaning Services, Munford Cleaning COACH ★ Marty Wheeler, Covington High School Football Finalists: Justin Gurley, David Sage CUSTOMER SERVICE ★ Gilt Edge Fire Dept. Finalists: Erie Insurance - Sheila Elrod, Uptown Curls CLEANERS ★ Munford Cleaners Finalist: Paul’s Cleaners E-911 DISPATCHER ★ James “Shugs” Stroud Finalists: Odessa Bernard, Craig Spence
TEACHER ★ Janice Smith, Crestview Elementary School Finalists: Erin Gautney, Kim Joyner US POSTAL CARRIER ★ Cindy Hensley Finalists: Mindy Rogers, Liz Taylor, Collin Tutor WAITER/WAITRESS ★ Crystal Knight, Gilt Edge Cafe Finalists: Wanda Gardner, Lina Shankle VETERINARIAN ★ English Veterinary Care 138 Commercial Drive, Atoka 901-837-8413 Finalists: Covington Animal Clinic, Munford Animal Hospital
SHOPPING
ACCESSORIES/JEWELRY ★ Bayou Belle’s Boutique Finalists: Brasfield Jewelers, Something Special ANTIQUES ★ Upscale Antiques & More 107 East Pleasant Avenue, Covington 901-476-7103 Finalists: Court Square Antiques, Past Times Antiques APPLIANCES ★ Haddad’s Dept. Store Finalists: Home Depot, Sears BOUTIQUE ★ Bayou Belle’s Boutique Finalists: Kelley’s Corner, Lydia’s Fashion & Designer Boutique
The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018 ★ 11
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“I WAS ROBBED!”
Stephen Shopher playfully steals the Volunteer of the Year award from Christie Jarvis. Nominated for the same honor, the pair joked for weeks about who would win. “… So proud of Christie Jarvis for winning Volunteer of the Year and more importantly I’m proud to call her friend,” Shopher later posted on Facebook. “She absolutely deserved this award and we had so much fun these past few weeks picking on one another for who volunteers the most.” Shopher is the youth services officer and was just elected to the county commission. Courtesy photo
THE SNO COTTAGE Like us on
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST ICE CREAM/ FROZEN DESSERT PROPERTY PLACE 204 Hwy. 51 S Ste B Covington Office (901) 476-2121
www.propertyplace.com SOLD SPOUSES SELLING H USES
Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT Laurie McClerkin
Thank you for voting me #1 Real Estate Agent in Tipton County.
WELLS KITCHEN 901.837.0179
@merrymaidstiptoncounty
136 N. MAIN BRIGHTON 901-476-5750
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US #1 CLEANING SERVICE!
VOTED BEST HOME COOKING & BEST DESSERT
120 W. Liberty Ave Covington, TN 38019 | 901-622-5050
VOTED BEST HEATING & AIR Thank you for this award. We would like to invite everyone to call us for a free quote on your heating & air needs.
12 ★ The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST CAR DEALER.
Visit us online at covingtonleader.com
CLOTHING ★ Bayou Belle’s Boutique Finalists: Goody’s, Maurice’s FLORISTS ★ Hometown Flowers & Gifts 1055 S. Main Street, Covington 901-476-1212 Finalists: Kathryn’s Flowers, Munford Florist & Gifts FURNITURE ★ Haddad’s Dept. Store Finalists: Outlaw Furniture & Mattress, What-A-Deal GIFT SHOP ★ Something Special 121 W. Court Square, Covington 901-475-4477 Finalists: Brighton Pharmacy & Gifts, Old Town Hall
CHECK US OUT ONLINE AT WWW.KINGCOTTONCOVINGTON.COM -KING COTTON CARES-
GARDEN SHOP ★ Oaklawn Garden Center & Nature Gift Shop Finalist: Home Depot HOME IMPROVEMENT ★ Home Depot Finalists: Brighton Lumber Company, Haddad’s Dept. Store HUNTING/OUTDOORS ★ Haddad’s Dept. Store Finalists: Stockdales, Walmart
121 Court Square W. Covington, TN 38019 901-475-4477 We would like to thank everyone for voting us Best Gift Shop. We truly appreciate our customers & the support you have shown us throughout the years.
MATTRESS STORE ★ Outlaw Furniture &Mattress Finalists: Sleep Station, Closeout Market PRODUCE ★ Court Square Farmer’s Market Finalists: Kroger, Naifeh’s SHOE STORE ★ Shoe Show Finalists: Bayou Belle’s Boutique, Shoe Sensation SMOKE SHOP ★ Smokin’ Atoka Tobacco, Corner Discount Tobacco SUPERMARKET ★ Kroger Finalists: Naifeh’s, Walmart THRIFT/RESALE STORE ★ Upscale Antiques & More 107 East Pleasant Avenue, Covington 901-476-7103 Finalists: Goodwill, The Hub
VEHICLE SALES & SERVICE AUTO DEALER ★ King Cotton 959 Hwy. 51 North, Covington kingcottonchrysler.com/kingcottonford.com Finalists: Bayird Chevrolet, McDivitt Motors Left to Right: Debbie Downing, Justin Bradford, Sherri Bradford, Marissa Lee, Amanda Shankle, April Scott, Aliza Concus, Julie Burton
Thank you for voting us Best Pharmacy and Best Pharmacist!
AUTO PARTS ★ AutoZone Finalits: Napa Auto Parts, O’Reilly Auto Parts AUTO REPAIR ★ Glass Tire & Muffler Finalists: Andy’s Auto Repair, Turning Wrenches BODY SHOP ★ Wall’s Paint & Body 833 East Street, Covington 901-476-6366 Finalists: Whaley’s Auto Repair & Towing, Atoka Body Shop CAR SALESPERSON ★ Marty McDivitt, McDivitt Motors 1723 Hwy. 51 South, Covington 901-476-5959 Finalists: Keith Miller, Mike Pegg
901-475-6300 1500 Highway 51 South • Covington, TN 38019
TIRE CENTER ★ Munford Tire & Brake Finalists: Co-Op Car Care Center, Glass Tire & Muffler OIL CHANGE ★ Munford Tire & Brake Finalists: Co-Op Car Care Center, Glass Tire & Muffler
SPECIAL HONORS
Little Shop of Hair
130 E Liberty Ave Covington, TN | 901.475.6261
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR
We’re so proud to have been voted Best Hair Salon. Thank you! Tiffany Sullivan, Brittany Wright, Dakotah Watkins, Amy Malone, Shelby Maughan, & Wh ittney Wolfe
VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR A new award for 2018, the Volunteer of the Year recognizes those who give so freely of their time and talents. The first recipient of this award was Christie Jarvis, who has served the county in so many ways and is currently the president of Amanda’s Way, and involved with the American Cancer Society, CASA and several other non profit organizations. Finalists included: ▪ Gilt Edge volunteer firefighter Billy Kidd, who regularly organizes events to celebrate first responders ▪ Gilt Edge Fire Chief Brandon Fletcher, who has dedicated a lot of time to providing top notch fire protection in the small town ▪ Youth Services Officer Stephen Shopher, a combat veteran whose nominations celebrate his willingness to help at many different events around Tipton County.
Atoka-Idaville 6971 hwy 14 901.476.1670 covington 101 hwy 51 901.475.4121
brighton 1020 old hwy 51 901.476.8040 munford 15903 hwy 51 901.837.8924
rosemark 2022 Rosemark Rd 901.837.3407 garland 5711 Hwy 59 W. 901.476.2447
Thank You for voting us Best Biscuits!
MR. TIPTON COUNTY
MR. TIPTON COUNTY Mr. Tipton County 2018 Neil Bringle, with Woodmen Life, was nominated for his love of helping those in his community and because he’s often seen “in Tipton County helping and sharing his time and wisdom.” Finalists were: ▪ Munford’s Parks and Recreation Director Griff Fisher, whose nominations praised his selfless nature and willingness to go above and beyond his duties, without complaint, to help others; and ▪ Gilt Edge Fire Chief Brandon Fletcher, who received several nominations praising his work ethic, good heart, and dedication to improving public safety
Chuck Williams voted Best Spiritual Leader First Baptist Covington voted Best Place to Worship
Continued on next page
We are honored to receive these awards! We thank you! (John 3:16)
2105 Hwy 59, Covington, TN 38019
The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018 ★ 14
Visit us online at covingtonleader.com
Thank you for voting us Best Funeral Home!
MS. TIPTON COUNTY
YOUR
VISION is our
Maley-Yarbrough Funeral Home
FOCUS
Experience You Can Trust Since 1890
1707 Highway 51 South • Covington Phone: 901-476-9778 | Obit Line: 901-476-9753 Fax: 901-476-1349 Owned & Operated by Local Family
Modern eye care...
with a hometown commitment
DRS. WHITLEY & HUGHES FA M I LY E Y E C A R E
476-8614 Covington
WH
837-0188
www.whitleyandhughes.com
Dr. Stan Whitley
Munford
Thank you for this recognition and support! I consider our patients our #1 priority and take pride in my commitment to top quality eye care and services. I appreciate your trust in me and look forward to serving you.
MS. TIPTON COUNTY Ms. Tipton County 2018 Ayanna Dowell is an educator who was nominated for her hard work in uniting the community and encouraging her students Finalists were: ▪ Lauren Fletcher, assistant director at the Covington-Tipton County Chamber of Commerce who, although she is relatively new to the community, dedicates much of her time to volunteering through the chamber and the Covington Rotary Club ▪ Lindsey Combs who inspires people with her fait
YOUTH OF THE YEAR
VOTED BEST OPTOMETRIST
YOUTH OF THE YEAR Youth of the Year 2018 Jackson Hughey is a football-loving Covington High School student who has been battling cancer for a year and is being commended for bringing the community together during his courageous fight. Finalists were: ▪ Averi Cole, Covington High School ’s Class of 2018 valediction who was applauded for her extensive volunteer work, promotion of agriculture and love of Christ ▪ Singer/songwriter, Austin Mason, another 2018 graduate, who was called a “young Christian Man who has helped lead many youth to Christ through his public speaking and his music;” and ▪ Jack Bailey Simpson, a 2018 graduate of Brighton High School who has coached baseball and softball teams for two years and is involved in the youth group at First Baptist Covington
THANK YOU TIPTON COUNTY FOR VOTING JT’S BEST WINGS! 76 TABB DR. MUNFORD, TN 38058 901.837.9339 WWW.JTSBURGERSANDWINGS.COM
15 ★ The Leader ★ Reader’s Choice Awards 2018
Visit us online at covingtonleader.com
Wall’s Paint and Body
843 East St. Covington, TN 38019 901-476-6366
We would like to thank everyone for voting us Best Body Shop. It is our privilege to serve our customers!
SPECIAL THANKS The Leader wishes to extend a special thank you to musician Austin Mason, a 2018 graduate of Covington High School and Bethel University freshman, and Brandon Armstrong, Brighton High School’s REDI Coordinator, for providing us with their talents for the 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards. We’d like to also give special thanks to Naifeh’s Cashsaver, Covington Liquor, Hometown Flowers & Gifts, Billings Bald Butcher and the Covington Civic Center.
Covington Care
765 Bert Johnston Ave Covington, TN 901-475-0027
Thank you for voting for us!
English Veterinary Care 138 Commercial Drive Atoka, TN 38004 Phone: 901-837-8413 Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturday: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
ALL DAY LAWN
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US
901-476-0079
www.alldaylawn.com • Aeration • Weed Control & • Mowing Fertilization • Mosquito Treatment • Mole Baits/Grub Treatment
Thank for voting us Best Landscaper! Charter #1330
BEST VETERINARIAN!!!!
A Passionate Commitment to Unsurpassed Service.
Voted Best Real Estate Broker in Tipton County
Michelle Allen
Raven Belue
Samantha Bruntz
Keith Carroll
Nancy Carroll
Javanha Davis
Charlene Gafford
Chip Goodrich
Ken Harris
Shelly Haywood
Kaye Latta
Neal Masters
Candy Pfeiffer
Carmen Prince
Karen Reyes
901-634-1243
901-616-4166
901-490-3894
901-317-9991
901-268-6901
901-634-7476
Jane Riggen Madonna Sanders 901-674-3642
901-647-8287
901-550-4925
901-849-0291
901-596-1490
Teri Shelton 901-480-5895
901-481-6629
901-219-0646
901-848-2277
Debbie Short 901-568-3909
& Cindy Wells Karen Thompson Gaynell WakeďŹ eld Jay901-230-4303 Annette Wilson
901-674-0341
901-451-2512
901-409-2780
901-482-6762
901-634-4043
901-461-3354
901-581-1514
Wally Sisk
Michelle Smith
Ken Wright
Jessica Yale
901-233-3107
901-265-4656
(901) 840-1181 | www.crye-leike.com 13690 Hwy 51 S. Atoka, TN 38004
901-570-0141
901-314-4188